The Motherwell-born man was brought up in Craigneuk and started his career off with Coltness United before being picked up by the Hoops in 1961.

Gemmell went on to become part of the legendary Lisbon Lions team who lifted the European Cup in 1967.

Gemmell scored in that final and in Celtic 's defeat to Feyenoord in 1970 - and is one of only two British players to score in two different European Cup finals.

Gemmell had a fearsome shot, as displayed against Aberdeen in the 1970 Scottish Cup Final

Celtic released a statement on their club website which reads: "Celtic legend Tommy Gemmell has passed away at the age of 73, and his death will be mourned by Celtic supporters and also the wider football world.

"Tommy Gemmell is a true Celtic legend, part of the greatest side in the club’s history and a man who played a pivotal role in our greatest ever triumph when, in Lisbon’s Estadio Nacional, 11 men all born within a 30-mile radius of Celtic Park, beat Inter Milan to win the European Cup.

"The legend of the Lisbon Lions was created that night, and Tommy and his team-mates were assured their place in the pantheon of Celtic greats.

"And, like the rest of the Lions, Tommy remained humble about his incredible football achievements.

Tommy Gemmell and Bobby Murdoch with the Scottish Cup in 1969

"The whole Celtic Family is mourning his passing, and everyone associated with the club sends their thoughts and prayers to his family, his fellow Lions and his many friends at this desperately sad time.

"Our thoughts are with Mary and Tommy’s family and friends at this very difficult time."